She says, "Getting lost, being gone for extended periods of time,starting to drive less at night, and avoiding bad weather driving."

Home Instead partners with Genesis Rehab Services, a company that uses simulators to evaluate everything from vision to motor skills.

"Particularly in their right foot. We want to make sure there aren't changes there," said Touchinsky.

And they look at cognitive functioning. Is reaction time slow? How's their coordination, strength and range of motion? All can be impaired by aging, disease or medication.

The simulator can also help drivers rebuild their muscles and reaction time after surgery to, say, the hip or shoulder. And it can serve as an objective intermediary. So it's a machine not a family member telling a senior they're no longer fit to drive.

Touchinsky says, "It's always challenging for families to be involved, especially if we're talking about mom or dad."

"They feel like they're a burden on their family, and it's also a blow to their ego," added Levin.

But by talking about driving, seniors can learn that there are lots of options for getting around when they can no longer get behind the wheel.

"The more we talk about driving with the older adult, the better chance we have for more positive outcomes," said Touchinsky.

For more information on senior programs, visit our Art of Aging section.